Clinique Pasteur Tunis
Chest, abdomen and pelvis CT scan (CAP)
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Chest, abdomen and pelvis CT scan (CAP)

Chest-abdomen-pelvis CT in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Chest, abdomen and pelvis CT scan in Tunis: chest, abdomen and pelvis in a single test, for cancer staging and follow-up or major trauma.

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What is it?

A chest, abdomen and pelvis CT scan examines the chest, abdomen and pelvis in a single pass, from the base of the neck to the top of the thighs. It is mainly used in cancer care: staging at diagnosis (to see whether the disease has spread to other organs or lymph nodes), then follow-up to check that treatment is working. It is also used to look for the source of an infection or an unexplained fever, and to assess injuries after a serious accident (major trauma). An iodinated contrast injection is usual. Depending on the request, the examination can be limited to the chest and abdomen.

When is it indicated?

Cancer staging

At diagnosis, it looks for spread to lymph nodes or other organs to help choose treatment.

Follow-up during treatment

Compared with previous scans, it shows the effect of treatment on the lesions.

Unexplained fever or infection

It looks for a deep source of infection in the chest or abdomen.

Major trauma

After a serious accident, it quickly assesses injuries to the organs and bones.

Preparation

1Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be: a CT scan uses X-rays
2Remove jewellery, hair clips, glasses, removable dentures and any metal object from the area being examined
3If an injection is planned, tell us about any allergy (especially to an iodinated contrast agent), kidney disease, diabetes or myeloma; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
4Tell us if you take metformin (a diabetes treatment): whether to pause it around the injection is decided by the doctor
5If an injection is planned, do not eat for a few hours beforehand, as instructed when you book; your usual medicines can generally be taken with a little water
6You may be asked to drink a contrast liquid before the examination, as instructed
7Bring your previous CT scans (on CD or USB stick): comparison is essential for follow-up

Procedure

1

You remove clothing and metal objects from the area to be examined; a gown may be provided

2

You lie on your back with your arms raised above your head

3

You lie on a table that slides slowly through a wide, open ring: it is not a closed tunnel

4

If an injection is needed, the iodinated contrast agent is given through a small drip in your arm: a brief feeling of warmth and a metallic taste are normal

5

You are given breathing instructions (breathe in, hold your breath for a few seconds); you need to keep still during each pass

6

You can then return to your usual activities; after an injection, drink plenty of fluids during the day (unless your doctor advises otherwise) to help clear the contrast agent

Duration

About 15 to 20 minutes in total; longer if a contrast drink is planned

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

A CT scan uses X-rays: the dose is set as low as possible while still giving useful images, and the examination is only done when it is justified
Pregnancy: a relative contraindication; a CT scan is only performed if it is essential, after medical advice
Allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast agent (if injected): rare and usually mild (redness, itching); serious reactions are exceptional and the team is trained to manage them
In case of kidney failure, the iodinated injection can strain the kidneys: the doctor avoids or adjusts it
Rarely, the contrast agent can leak under the skin at the drip site: temporary swelling, easily managed

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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